This Week in Startups

Figma IPO, IMAX AI Festival, the Tea app spill, that one Sydney Sweeney jeans ad, and more! | E2157

56 snips
Jul 29, 2025
The show dives into the controversial Sydney Sweeney jeans ad, sparking debates on beauty standards and cultural implications. Discussions also tackle the evolving role of AI in filmmaking, particularly through IMAX's new AI film festival and Netflix's innovations. A deep look at Figma's IPO offers insights into startup finance and education debates. Plus, they dissect the problematic Tea app's data breach, highlighting privacy concerns and ethical dilemmas in tech. It's a colorful blend of media, tech, and societal reflections!
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Sydney Sweeney Ad Controversy

  • Sydney Sweeney's American Eagle jeans ad sparked cultural debate due to its focus on her blonde hair and blue eyes.
  • The ad's praise of her specific genetics triggered accusations of promoting a narrow racial ideal.
ADVICE

Preempt Negative Reactions

  • Always evaluate the worst possible interpretation of your marketing before launch.
  • Consider how bad faith actors might weaponize your campaign to avoid backlash.
ANECDOTE

Gwyneth Paltrow's Viral Astronomer Ad

  • Astronomer's CEO scandal went viral but was overshadowed by a witty viral ad featuring Gwyneth Paltrow.
  • The ad helped change the conversation and contained comedic timing that reset public focus.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app